Śakti

(3,093 words)

Article Table of Contents

The term śakti stems from the Sanskrit root śak-, “to have power to effect,” with a suffix -ktin, indicating the feminine gender. In general, the term refers to power, strength, or energy. In the religious context, Śakti stands for the Goddess (Devī), or the powers of the deities. From vedic Agni worship to later tantric emanations (see Tantra), the meaning of śakti is consistent as the divine power, inseparable from the power holder. In subsequent development, Śakt…